Roark passes another test with save against Marlins

In his relatively short MLB career, Tanner Roark has already gone from afterthought prospect to surprise bullpen contributor to a 15-win starter and now back to relieving, somehow finding success at each stop. The former 25th round pick who lost 17 games at Triple-A the year before he debuted has become a baseball renaissance man. Ask him to do just about anything and he will do it well.

But before Monday night, there was one thing Roark had not done. He’s been excellent in middle relief, long relief, setup situations and as a starter, so what about closing? Sure, why not.

Roark finally got the opportunity to save a game in the Nationals’ 6-4 win over the Marlins on Monday night due to closer Drew Storen being unavailable. Storen had pitched on consecutive nights, so Matt Williams needed somebody to step in.